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Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge: A Piece of History in Winterset City Park

Visit the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge in Winterset City Park, a historic landmark and beautiful reminder of Iowa's covered bridge heritage.

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The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, built in 1870 by Eli Cox, is a charming piece of Iowa's past. Originally located over the North River near Bevington, it was moved to Winterset City Park in 1970 and stands as a testament to traditional bridge construction and local heritage.

A brief summary to Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge

  • Monday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Take a moment to read the informational plaques around the bridge to learn about its history.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the nearby park area for a relaxing day out.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Winterset town center, head south on S 9th St. Continue for about 14 minutes until you reach Winterset City Park. The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge is located near the park entrance.

  • Driving

    From Des Moines, take I-80 W and then US-169 S towards Winterset. Once you reach Winterset, follow US-169 S to S 9th St. Turn left onto S 9th St, and you will find the bridge located a short distance ahead. There is ample parking available nearby. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge

The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, nestled in Winterset City Park, is one of the six remaining covered bridges in Madison County, Iowa. Built in 1870 by Eli Cox, the 79-foot-long bridge originally spanned the North River near Bevington, Iowa. In 1970, it was relocated to its current picturesque setting in Winterset City Park, just in time for the first Madison County Covered Bridge Festival. The bridge's name comes from two families, the Cutlers and the Donahoes, who lived near its original location and both claimed naming rights. The Cutler-Donahoe bridge is a Town lattice truss construction with an overlay queenpost frame, fastened with wooden pins and iron bolts. The bridge is made of white pine, which was likely shipped from Oregon. The pitched roof is a traditional design element. Today, the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge welcomes visitors to Winterset City Park, a 76-acre space with a wooded nature area. While the bridge no longer crosses a river, it spans a natural swale within the park. Visitors can explore the bridge, admire its architecture, and learn about its history through informational plaques. The park also offers walking trails and other amenities, making it a destination for nature lovers and history buffs.

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